In North Carolina, when it comes to the wine industry, there’s plenty to celebrate. North Carolina is the 10th-largest producer of wine in the country, supporting more than 45,000 jobs and contributing more than $7 billion to the state’s economy.
On Friday, May 28, Shelton Vineyards in Dobson hosted an event celebrating N.C. Wine Month and promoting the industry. Gov. Josh Stein, First Lady Anna Stein, N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service’s Assistant Commissioner Dr. Joe French and Visit N.C. Executive Director Wit Tuttell attended the tour and press event. The press conference wrapped up down a month of dozens of events highlighting North Carolina wine, cider and mead.
“North Carolina wineries attract visitors and puts our state on the map,” said Gov. Josh Stein. “And the vineyards cement our state’s agricultural reputation. I encourage North Carolinians and others to consider visiting a North Carolina winery.”
“Twenty years ago, the state had around 50 wineries. Today, we have 400-plus vineyards and 200 producers,” said Dr. Joe French. “Those numbers show how much this industry has grown. No matter where you are in North Carolina, you are never more than 45 miles away from a wine, cider or mead producer.”
North Carolina is home to seven distinct, federally recognized American Viticultural Areas: Appalachian High Country, Crest of the Blue Ridge Henderson County, Haw River Valley, Swan Creek, Upper Hiwassee Highlands, Yadkin Valley and the Tryon Foothills. The state has three distinct grape growing regions – the Mountains, Piedmont and Coast. Each AVA and region offers unique features and growing conditions for grapes.
The development of today’s wine, cider and mead industry is not surprising given our long history of commercial winemaking in North Carolina that dates back to the first commercial winery in Halifax County in 1835. Before Prohibition, North Carolina produced more wine than any other state in the nation.
Today you will find quality North Carolina wines produced from scuppernong, vinifera and hybrid grapes that range from sweet to dry.
North Carolina’s wineries, meaderies and cideries are also great agritourism destinations, drawing over a million visitors annually and contributing significantly to local economies. The state ranks 11th in number of tourist visits, and a 2025 Wine America Economic Impact Study valued tourist expenditures at $193 million.
For more information on North Carolina’s wine industry, visit www.ncwine.org.